What Discounts Do College Students Get?
Navigating college life can be both exciting and financially challenging. Fortunately, many businesses and organizations recognize the unique struggles of students and offer a variety of discounts to help ease the financial burden. In this article, we will explore the numerous discounts available to college students, from tech and transportation to entertainment and dining.
Why Do Businesses Offer Student Discounts?
Before diving into the specifics, it’s important to understand why businesses offer discounts to college students:
- Target Market: Students represent a large demographic that businesses want to attract for future loyalty.
- Financial Strain: College students often have limited budgets, making discounts an effective way to encourage spending.
- Brand Loyalty: Offering discounts can foster a sense of loyalty among students who may continue to use a brand long after graduation.
- Apple: Students can receive up to 10% off MacBooks and iPads, along with special pricing on software.
- Microsoft: Offers Office 365 for free to students, along with discounts on Surface devices.
- Adobe: College students can access Adobe Creative Cloud for a fraction of the regular price, typically around $19.99/month.
- Public Transit: Many cities offer discounted public transportation passes for students. Check with local transit authorities for details.
- Amtrak: Offers a 15% discount on train fares for students with a valid student ID.
- Greyhound: Students can save 20% on bus tickets by using a student ID or the Student Advantage membership.
- Chipotle: Offers a discount for students who show their ID.
- Subway: Many locations provide a student discount, typically around 10%.
- Starbucks: Some locations offer discounts for students, especially during exam weeks.
- Movie Theaters: Chains like AMC and Regal often have student discount nights or cheaper tickets with a student ID.
- Streaming Services: Services like Spotify and Hulu offer discounted rates for students, often around 50% off the regular subscription price.
- Museums and Attractions: Many museums and cultural attractions offer discounted or free admission to students with valid ID.
- Nike: Offers a 10% student discount on online purchases.
- ASOS: Provides a 10% discount for students through verification services like UNiDAYS.
- Levi’s: Offers a 15% discount for students who show their ID at checkout.
- UNiDAYS: Offers discounts from popular brands upon verification.
- Student Beans: Similar to UNiDAYS, providing a range of discounts.
- ID.me: Verification service that partners with many retailers to offer discounts.
Categories of Discounts for College Students
1. Technology Discounts
In today’s digital age, technology is essential for academic success. Many tech companies provide discounts to students, including:
2. Transportation Discounts
Getting around campus and beyond can be costly. Here are some transportation discounts available for students:
3. Food and Dining Discounts
Eating out can quickly add up, but many restaurants and food chains offer student discounts:
4. Entertainment Discounts
From movies to concerts, students can enjoy various entertainment options at a lower cost:
5. Clothing and Retail Discounts
Fashion can be expensive, but many retailers cater to students with special discounts:
Comparison Table of Popular Student Discounts
| Category | Company/Service | Discount Offered |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Apple | Up to 10% off MacBooks and iPads |
| Microsoft | Free Office 365, discounts on Surface | |
| Adobe | ~$19.99/month for Creative Cloud | |
| Transportation | Amtrak | 15% discount on train fares |
| Greyhound | 20% off tickets with student ID | |
| Food & Dining | Chipotle | Discount with student ID |
| Subway | 10% discount at participating stores | |
| Starbucks | Discounts at select locations | |
| Entertainment | AMC Theaters | Discount nights or cheaper tickets |
| Spotify | 50% off student subscription | |
| Museums | Discounted/free admission | |
| Clothing & Retail | Nike | 10% off online purchases |
| ASOS | 10% off with UNiDAYS verification | |
| Levi’s | 15% off with student ID |
How to Access Student Discounts
1. Valid Student ID
The most common requirement to access student discounts is a valid student ID. Always carry your student ID with you when shopping or dining out to ensure you can take advantage of available discounts.
2. Online Verification
Many online retailers require students to verify their status through platforms like UNiDAYS or Student Beans. These platforms allow you to create an account and receive a verification badge, making it easier to access discounts.
3. Sign Up for Newsletters
Many companies send out exclusive discounts and promotions to their email subscribers. Signing up for newsletters from your favorite brands can often lead to additional savings.
4. Use Student Discount Websites
There are several websites dedicated to listing student discounts across various categories. Some popular ones include:
Tips for Maximizing Student Discounts
1. Stay Informed: Follow your favorite brands on social media for exclusive student discounts and promotions.
2. Ask: Don’t hesitate to ask if a store offers student discounts; not all discounts are widely advertised.
3. Combine Discounts: Some retailers allow you to combine student discounts with sales or coupons for even greater savings.
4. Check Expiration Dates: Some discounts are seasonal or have expiration dates, so check regularly to ensure you’re making the most of available offers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do all colleges have student discounts?
Not all colleges have the same partnerships or agreements with local businesses, but many do. It’s best to check with your college’s student services or website for specific discounts available to you.
2. Can I use student discounts after graduation?
Most student discounts are intended for currently enrolled students, but some companies may offer discounts for a limited time after graduation. Always check the specific terms and conditions.
3. How do I prove I’m a student?
You can usually prove your student status with a student ID, an acceptance letter, or through online verification platforms like UNiDAYS.
4. Are there discounts for graduate students?
Yes, many discounts are available for graduate students as long as they can provide proof of enrollment.
5. Are student discounts only available in the U.S.?
While this article focuses on discounts available in the U.S., many countries offer similar student discounts. Always check local businesses and international retailers for available offers.
Conclusion
College life comes with its own set of challenges, but taking advantage of the numerous discounts available to students can help ease financial stress. From technology and transportation to food and entertainment, there are countless opportunities to save. Make sure to keep your student ID handy, verify your status when necessary, and don’t hesitate to ask about discounts wherever you go. By being proactive, you can enjoy your college experience while keeping your budget in check.
